Greece is literally on the brink of catastrophe. What the Greek people have experienced since Friday midnight are not scenarios and assumptions of dark centers wishing to undermine us, they are unfortunately the sad reality. The abrupt and unexplained decision of Mr. Tsipras and his government to lead the country to a divisive referendum, at a time when they knew that our agreed program with the creditor would expire, has opened a can of worms.
Whether they misinterpreted the situation, consciously or not, the Prime Minister is leading the country and the people to a dramatic dead end. Because he did not dare overcome the internal reactions in his party, he is passing on the responsibility to the people, ignoring the consequences of his decisions. Because he was well aware that without a program, the country, banks and economy would not have the limitless access to European Central Bank funding.
The Greek people are experiencing the consequences which are getting worse as every hour goes by. We are in a situation of absolute insecurity and uncertainty. With the banks naturally shutting down, endless queues at the ATMS for a few euros, pensions paid out in installments and lines at the super markets and gas stations; a complete collapse of everyday normality, with tragic consequences for the operation of businesses and tourism, the country’s primary industry.
Mr. Tsipras and his government promised hope to the Greek people and unfortunately their choices managed to make the situation for them much worse, painful and traumatic in decades. They insist on not understanding the consequences of the actions and omissions, cultivating an anti-European climate and cutting off the country from its natural allies.
It is time though, even in this hour, to realize that there is no other way other than Greece remaining in Europe and with the single currency; with sacrifices that will unfortunately be even more painful, due to the tragic government decisions and initiatives. Any other prospect though, as it turns out, will be more painful and catastrophic, especially for the weakest section of Greek society.
TO VIMA
